Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras Innsbruck)
Schloss-strasse 20, Innsbruck, Tyrol, 6020
Perched in the foothills of the Alps just south of Innsbruck, the 16th-century Ambras Palace (Schloss Ambras) was the onetime residence of Archduke Ferdinand II. Today, the striking Renaissance palace and impeccably manicured gardens play host to one of Innsbruck’s most impressive museums and portrait galleries.
The Basics
Visitors to Ambras Palace can admire the magnificent Spanish Hall, with its floor-to-ceiling frescoes; peek into the bathing chambers of Philippine Welser; see the archduke’s Chamber of Art and Curiosities; and explore the armories of the Lower Castle, which include a vast collection of armor and rare weaponry. Another highlight is the Hapsburg Portrait Gallery housed in the Upper Castle, which features some 300 paintings spanning 400 years of Hapsburg history, including works by Titian, van Dyck, and Cranach the Elder.
Things to Know Before You Go
Ambras Palace is a must for history lovers; plan at least two hours to explore the castle and exhibitions.
There is an admission fee for the museum; entrance is included with the Innsbruck Card.
Audio guides are available in multiple languages including English.
The grounds have a bistro-restaurant, courtyard café (summer only), and gift shop.
Many parts of the palace are wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
Ambras Palace is located around 2 miles (3 kilometers) east of Innsbruck Old Town, about a 10-minute drive. Hop-on hop-off buses (included with the Innsbruck Card) stop right outside, or you can catch bus 4134 from Innsbruck train station.
When to Get There
The palace is open daily from midmorning to late afternoon. Note that the Hapsburg Portrait Gallery is only open from April to October, and the entire complex is closed during the month of November.
Hapsburg Sites in Innsbruck
The Hapsburg dynasty was one of the most important in European history, and the Austrian royals owned a number of properties in and around Innsbruck. Alongside Ambras Palace, other notable sites include the Imperial Palace (Hofburg), the former home of Emperor Francis I and Empress Maria Theresa; the Court Church (Hofkirche), which houses the elaborate cenotaph of Emperor Maximilian I; and the Golden Roof, a glittering landmark erected by Emperor Maximilian I in 1500.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!